The history of the Toronto Raptors certainly has its fair share of ups, downs and just plain strange moments.
The NBA awards Toronto its 28th franchise. John Bitove and Allan Slaight each have 44 per cent ownership of the team.The team announces it will be called the Raptors. Many feel the name was influenced by the popularity of the movie "Jurassic Park."NBA legend Isiah Thomas is introduced as vice-president of basketball and eventually gets part ownership of team.The Raptors make Damon Stoudamire their first draft pick, going seventh overall at the then-SkyDome.
Maple Leaf Gardens Inc., owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, buys the Raptors and the arena the team was building, the Air Canada Centre.The Raptors make a draft-day deal to acquire Vince Carter, who was selected fifth overall by Golden State. He goes on to be named rookie of the year after a lockout-shortened season.The Air Canada Centre opens, giving the Raptors a true basketball arena after their run at the home of Major League Baseball's Blue Jays and the CFL's Argonauts.
The Raptors are swept by New York in their first playoff appearance. Head coach Butch Carter is fired after numerous controversies and replaced by veteran bench boss Lenny Wilkens.McGrady, a cousin of Vince Carter, elects to leave the Raptors, agreeing to a deal with Orlando. Carter, meanwhile, helps the Americans win gold at the Sydney Olympics, highlighted by a dunk in which he jumped over seven-foot-two French centre Frederic Weis.
The Raptors miss the playoffs after a season-ending injury to Bosh coincides with a slide down the standings. That summer, he signs with Miami, joining fellow marquee free agents Dwyane Wade, who re-signed with the Heat, and LeBron James.The Raptors make a trade with Houston to acquire point guard Kyle Lowry. He eventually teams with DeRozan to give the Raptors their greatest team success until this year.Toronto rapper Drake is named the team's global ambassador.
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